I'm thinking of applying ED to Duke and UVA. Do you think I have any realistic chance of scholarship money? I'm obviosuly not looking for a full ride or anything but do you think I have any shot of getting any scholarships applying ED at these schools? Should I apply regular decision instead?

I'm thinking of applying ED to Duke and UVA. Do you think I have any realistic chance of scholarship money? I'm obviosuly not looking for a full ride or anything but do you think I have any shot of getting any scholarships applying ED at these schools? Should I apply regular decision instead?

Unless you are 100% sure on those schools, dont do it. Apply early action (non-binding) to all the schools that you can. With some luck, you will be able to crack the top 14 with perhaps some money. If not, at least you will still leave to door open to schools like vandy, which will probably give you money.

When you apply binding ED, you are basically giving up most of your shot at aid. If you are committing to attend via a binding ED agreement, there is absolutely no incentive for the school to give you a dime. Need based aid is another story, but that's based on parental income regardless of your age or "independent" status. If you want a chance at $, do not apply binding ED to any school.